Will Anderson Jr. is building a case as the NFL’s top defensive player
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Will Anderson Jr. is building a case as the NFL’s top defensive player originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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Houston Texans star edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. has quickly gone from a promising young defender to one of the most dominant defensive players in the NFL. After a breakout 2025 season, many analysts believe Anderson is no longer just one of the league’s best pass rushers—he is becoming the standard for defensive excellence.
Anderson finished the 2025 regular season with 54 total tackles, 35 solo tackles, 12 sacks, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. His 12 sacks ranked among the NFL’s top pass rushers, while his ability to impact games beyond the sack column showcased his complete skill set.
The advanced metrics are even more impressive. According to Next Gen Stats, Anderson recorded 85 quarterback pressures, the second-most in the NFL, while posting a 20.5% pressure rate, the third-highest among qualified edge defenders. He also set a Next Gen Stats-era record with 48 third-down pressures, consistently delivering in the biggest moments.
Redefining defensive dominance for the Texans
Pro Football Focus graded Anderson at 92.4 overall during the 2025 season, ranking second among 115 qualified edge defenders. His 91.7 pass-rush grade ranked fourth in the NFL, while his run defense also graded among the league’s best.
The accolades followed. Anderson earned First-Team All-Pro honors and finished runner-up for NFL Defensive Player of the Year voting. He became just the third defensive player in Texans history to receive First-Team All-Pro recognition, joining franchise legends who helped define elite defensive play in Houston.
Anderson’s dominance and rapid rise led the Texans to sign him to a three-year, $150 million extension, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. At just 24 years old, he already owns 30 career sacks and has established himself as the centerpiece of Houston’s top-ranked defense.
With elite production, All-Pro recognition, and a growing reputation as one of football’s most disruptive forces, Will Anderson Jr. is making a strong case that he is not only the future of defense in the NFL—he may already be its best player.
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